first time

USAGE SUMMARY

"first time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to refer to something that is happening, or has happened, for the first time. Example sentence: "I was nervous to go out on stage for the first time, but it ended up being an incredible experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

First time on dirt.

The New York Times

The first time "G.M.A".

The New York Times

Michael: The first time?

The New York Times

First time on course.

The New York Times - Sports

Not first time.

The New Yorker

First Time Gardener.

The Economist

For the second time.

The New York Times

The first time it was.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's like the first time.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

First-time offense.

The New Yorker

They are first-time restaurateurs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first time" to mark significant transitions or turning points in a narrative. It can create anticipation or highlight the importance of a moment.

Common error

Avoid using "first time" excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using alternatives like "initially" or "for the first occasion" to maintain reader engagement and avoid repetition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first time" functions as a noun phrase often acting as an adverbial modifier indicating when something occurs initially. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first time" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate the initial occurrence of an event or experience. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and appears in various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and informal writings. With a neutral register, it is suitable for diverse audiences. Remember to use it judiciously, considering alternatives to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively leverage "first time" to create compelling and engaging narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial experience

Emphasizes the experiential aspect of something happening for the first time.

maiden voyage

Specifically refers to the first journey or undertaking of something, often a ship or project.

debut

Highlights the first public appearance or performance.

newbie experience

Highlights the inexperience associated with doing something for the first time

first go

Informal way to describe the first attempt at something.

virgin attempt

Similar to "first go", but can also suggest naivety or inexperience.

inaugural

Formal term for the first in a series or the beginning of something official.

unprecedented moment

Emphasizes that something has never happened before.

opening gambit

Refers to the first move or action in a strategy or negotiation.

premiere

Used to describe the first public showing of a film, play, or other performance.

FAQs

How can I use "first time" in a sentence?

You can use "first time" to describe an experience or event that is happening for the initial occasion. For example, "It was my "first time" visiting Paris, and I was amazed by the architecture."

What can I say instead of "first time"?

Alternatives to "first time" include "initial experience", "debut", or "maiden voyage", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "for the first time ever"?

Yes, "for the first time ever" is a valid and emphatic way to indicate that something has never happened before. It adds emphasis to the novelty of the event.

What's the difference between "first time" and "the first time"?

"First time" is often used more generally to describe an initial experience, while "the first time" refers to a specific occasion. For instance, "First time skiing can be challenging" versus "I remember the "first time" I met her."